Peterbilt general manager Jake Montero, (left) and assistant general manager Erik Johnson, talk to the media at the OEM’s headquarters in Denton, Texas, on April 13.
On a quiet Spring Sunday afternoon, Peterbilt’s new general manager, Jake Montero, gave an update on the Paccar brand today.
He also fielded questions from journalists about where both Peterbilt is headed during these turbulent times.
Montero noted that the past year has been marked by significant achievements and continued progress for the Peterbilt brand. As evidence, Montero pointed to the OEM’s record market share, successful product launches, and advancements in manufacturing and customer support.
Record Market Share Performance
A key highlight of the past year was the record 15.3% market share achieved in the Class 8 segment, Montero noted.
Peterbilt’s medium-duty market share also saw growth, increasing by 1.3% to reach 9%.
“Peterbilt’s leadership in the vocational and refuse market segment remains strong,” Montero said. “We currently have a leading market share of 21.2%. This success in a historically strong segment for Peterbilt demonstrates our continued expertise and customer preference in these demanding applications. These achievements across various market segments are a testament to the hard work of our sales, engineering, and after-sales teams.”
Successful Product Introductions and Enhancements
The past year was also characterized by what Montero called a “robust” pipeline of product introductions and enhancements.
“These new products really demonstrate a commitment by Peterbilt to provide cutting-edge solutions for our customers,” he added.
A major success story was the first full year of the Peterbilt’s new Model 589 conventional tractor.
More than 600 of the new trucks have already been built and delivered, Montero added.
The launch of the 589 in May of 2023 was a significant event for us,” Montero said. “And its successful first year of production speaks to its appeal and performance. In fact, many who experienced the truck firsthand recognized its exceptional qualities.”
New Products and Manufacturing Methods
Additionally, Montero pointed to several other key Peterbilt product launches and updates that have occurred over the past year. These include:
- New advanced safety systems, including the Fusion Stop and AutoGo systems
- Expanded Model 589 Options including a new 72-inch low roof sleeper option
- More powertrain Innovations, including the Cummins X15N and the Paccar TX-12 Pro transmissions
- Specialized vehicle offerings like the 2.1-meter car carriers with the PX-9 engine
- Industry-leading designs like the new 95-inch high Peterbilt Model 579 daycab — eliminating the need for aftermarket modifications and streamlining body integration for auto haulers.
- The introduction of new digital vision systems and an updated infotainment display with Apple CarPlay, incorporating modern technology for driver convenience and safety.
Additionally, Montero said Peterbilt designers continue to focus on efficiency by launching lighter-weight vehicle options — specifically with disc brakes – with more lightweight features coming later this year.
Looking ahead to the current year, 2025, Peterbilt has already launched LED headlights for the Model 589 and our medium duty products. And a new generation of electric vehicles will be unveiled in the very near future.
Key to all of these successes, Montero said, is Peterbilt’s state-of-the-art truck manufacturing plant – just down the road from the OEM’s headquarters in Denton.
“A significant milestone for our manufacturing operations was the building of our 800,000th truck in Denton,” Montero said.
The Denton factory underwent a major transformation last year with the transition to all automated guided vehicles (AGVs) on the chassis line, Montero added.
This move towards automation reflects a commitment to advanced manufacturing processes and will be evident to those touring the facility.
The final piece of the Peterbilt formula for success, according to Montero, is the OEM’s “expansive” dealer network.
“Currently, we have 432 dealer locations,” he added. “This ongoing focus on increasing service points ensures that our customers have readily available support when and where they need it. Furthermore, our mobile service capabilities have significantly expanded, with over 1,000 mobile service trucks in the network providing on-the-go support to maximize uptime for our customers.”
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